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The Indian Air Force (IAF) is preparing to formally launch one of the world's largest military aviation procurements by seeking initial government approval for the acquisition of 114 Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA).
A proposal for the 'Acceptance of Necessity' (AoN), the first step in the capital procurement process, is expected to be presented to the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) within the next two months, signalling a renewed urgency to modernise the nation's air defence capabilities.
This critical move aims to address the IAF's declining combat fleet. Against a government-sanctioned strength of 42 fighter squadrons required to effectively manage a potential two-front conflict, the IAF currently operates with approximately 31 squadrons.
The retirement of older aircraft like the MiG-21s has further widened this capability gap. The MRFA programme is designed to induct advanced 4.5-generation combat aircraft, providing the operational flexibility needed for air superiority, ground attack, and strategic reconnaissance missions.
The procurement, estimated to be worth between $15 billion and $20 billion, will be pursued under the 'Make in India' framework.
Once the DAC, chaired by the Defence Minister, grants the AoN, the IAF will proceed with issuing a formal Request for Proposal (RFP) to global aerospace firms.
The project places a significant emphasis on the transfer of technology and substantial local manufacturing of the aircraft and their associated systems, aiming to boost India's indigenous defence-industrial base.
A number of the world's leading aviation manufacturers are expected to participate in the competitive bidding process. The potential contenders include:
- Dassault Aviation (France) with its Rafale fighter. The IAF already operates 36 Rafales, which is seen as a significant advantage due to existing infrastructure and pilot familiarity.
- Boeing (USA), which may offer its F/A-18 Super Hornet and F-15EX Eagle II.
- Lockheed Martin (USA) with the F-21, a variant of the F-16 specifically configured for India.
- Saab (Sweden) with the Gripen E fighter.
- The Eurofighter Consortium (UK, Germany, Italy, Spain) with the Typhoon.
- Russia's Rosoboronexport may field the MiG-35 or the Su-35.
Following the AoN, the process of technical evaluations, flight trials, and contract negotiations is expected to take several years, with a final contract likely to be signed around 2028.
Deliveries of the new jets would commence approximately three to four years after the contract is finalised.
The successful induction of these 114 jets is vital for the IAF's force structure. The new aircraft will operate alongside the existing fleet of Su-30 MKIs, the indigenous LCA Tejas, Mirage 2000s, and the current Rafales.
This will create a more versatile and powerful air arm, enhancing India's combat readiness and providing a substantial boost to the nation's aerospace and defence manufacturing ecosystem for decades to come.
